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Molasses Cake Recipe (Old-Fashioned)

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Old-Fashioned Molasses Cake is a soft, moist single-layer cake with deep caramel-like sweetness from molasses and warm spices like ginger and cinnamon. Simple pantry ingredients create a comforting dessert with a tender crumb and a slightly sticky top.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 9 squares
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 cup molasses (284 g)
  • 1 cup hot coffee (240 ml)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (284 g)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup butter, softened (57 g)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (115 g)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch (20 cm) square cake pan and line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl or measuring jug, combine the molasses and hot coffee. Stir until smooth and set aside.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, and salt.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and smooth.
  5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.
  6. Stir the molasses and coffee mixture into the butter mixture until combined.
  7. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until a smooth batter forms.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
  9. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Remove from the oven and loosely cover the pan with foil while the cake cools to retain moisture.
  11. Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing into squares and serving.

Notes

  • Use unsulphured molasses for the best flavor; avoid blackstrap molasses.
  • Covering the cake while cooling helps create the signature sticky top.
  • Hot water can replace coffee if preferred.
  • Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
  • The cake pairs well with whipped cream or a simple vanilla glaze.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/molasses-cake-recipe-old-fashioned/